Lower Calf Creek Falls

Lower Calf Creek Falls is one of the geological gems nestled in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a region rich with natural wonders. The hike to the waterfalls is relatively short with minimal elevation gain, but nearly the entirety is through sand, which can make for slow going. The terminus of the hike is a majestic 130-foot tall waterfall cascading into a pool practically made for swimming.  

Much of the hike winds through towering Navajo sandstone canyon walls. Consistent with the surrounding area, this canyon was carved by the downward cutting action of flowing water, giving way to horizontal expansion of the canyon.  

In addition to the waterfall, a major highlight for this hike is the visual evidence of the native residents dating many, many centuries ago. These include an ancient storage granary and a panel of entrancing pictographs.  

Upper Calf Creek Falls is located nearby, but it can only be accessed via a different trailhead to the north. These falls are shorter, checking in at only 88 feet, but they are also frequently less crowded.